At Outstand, we’re firm believers in the idea that engagement fuels learning. There’s a growing body of research to support the idea that when students are actively involved in their own learning process, they are likely to grasp and retain concepts more effectively. Our commitment to this approach is seen in our policy of incorporating at least one engaging individual or group project into each Learning Gig. This isn’t just a trendy pedagogical gimmick, but a proven method to enhance learning.
Understanding Engagement in Learning
Engagement in learning is more than just paying attention. It involves a deep involvement in the learning process – asking questions, solving problems, and applying concepts. A 2011 study by the National Survey of Student Engagement found that students who are more engaged in their education are more likely to earn higher grades and are generally more satisfied with their educational experience.
In fact, students who engage in active learning, which includes hands-on projects and problem-solving activities, show a 6% higher success rate in their studies compared to those involved in traditional passive learning methods. This percentage might seem small, but in an educational context, this equates to significant improvements in learning outcomes.
Advantages of Engagement in Learning
- Deeper Understanding: Active engagement through hands-on projects enables students to gain a deeper understanding of the topic. It provides opportunities for practical application, which reinforces theoretical concepts.
- Improved Retention: According to a study conducted by the National Training Laboratories, people retain 75% of what they learn when they practice what they learned, and 90% of what they learn when they teach others or use the information immediately[^3^]. This is starkly higher compared to only 5% retention from lecture-style teaching.
- Enhanced Soft Skills: Engaging group projects also promote the development of critical soft skills such as collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. These skills are increasingly crucial in today’s evolving workplace.
- Increased Motivation: Actively engaged students tend to be more motivated to learn and achieve. Engagement can create a sense of ownership over learning, which can lead to greater interest and drive.
How Outstanda Promotes Learning Through Engagement
Incorporating engagement into every Learning Gig ensures that learners actively participate in their education. Our platform is designed to stimulate intellectual curiosity and challenge learners to think critically and creatively.
Our Learning Gigs typically involve discussions, debates, role-plays, and group projects that promote cooperative learning. Each student, therefore, has the opportunity to contribute and learn from their peers, fostering an inclusive learning community.
Moreover, these hands-on projects are geared to enable learners to apply the knowledge they gain immediately. This creates a learning loop where theory is put into practice and the resulting experience deepens understanding.
Engaging students in the learning process is more than just a pedagogical trend. It’s an investment in the future, equipping learners not just with facts and figures, but with the tools to think critically, solve problems, and work collaboratively. The holistic development of learners – academically, socially, and emotionally – is at the core of Outstanda’s approach to education.
The shift to active, engaged learning recognizes that education is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Everyone has different learning styles and paces, and engagement allows for personalization, catering to each learner’s unique needs. Moreover, it prepares students for real-world experiences and challenges, promoting the development of skills that will be valuable long after the lessons have ended.
In addition to the benefits already mentioned, engaging education can also support well-being. A study from the University of California, Los Angeles, found that students who felt more connected and engaged in school reported lower levels of stress and higher rates of overall well-being.
While engagement cannot magically solve all challenges in education, it undoubtedly plays a crucial role in fostering an enriching and empowering learning experience. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, integrating active engagement into teaching practices is more important than ever. The success of the Learning Gigs at Outstanda.org is a testament to the transformative potential of engagement in education.
We’re proud to be at the forefront of this shift, encouraging active learning and fostering environments that nurture curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.